January 8, 2007

I've started a list of what to pack for my 7 1/2 months in Rome, which span February through September. I always end up packing too much and schlepping something heavy and useless all over Europe every summer. So I'm soliciting advice from you. Name one thing you never regretted dragging with you on vacation/to college/when you moved, and name one thing you totally regretted.

I lived in and out of a suitcase for years while I travelled about the world. Some tips: buy a hairdryer in Italy. They are cheap and it saves you lugging around an adaptor and dryer. Same with toiletries.

Avoid bringing anything that needs dry cleaning. Take 2 pairs of shoes max. You will probably buy more there. If you are going to be hiking, participating in digs, etc. bring clothes that you can either toss at the end of your trip or you don't mind losing. Most cities have charity shops so you can always give away the stuff you don't need at the end of your stay.

is a bioarchaeologist and assistant professor at the University of West Florida. This is her personal blog about archaeology, bioanthropology, and the classical world. Follow her on Twitter (@DrKillgrove) or G+, or follow PbO on Facebook.